People may have gone hungry today because of roadworks in Maryport.

The local Foodbank at St Mary's Church was unable to open because volunteers were unable to get in because of the resurfacing works that have closed Wood Street and partially blocked streets running off the main thoroughfare.

Councillor and church lay reader Linda Radcliffe said described the situation as "horrifying."

"If there are homeless people who have gone hungry in this weather then this is a disaster," she said.

Keith Little, transport portfolio holder for the county council, said he would talk to the contractors to see if it was possible for them to finish work at the Netherhall end of Wood Street tomorrow to allow the Foodbank to open as usual on Thursday and Friday.

"If not we would have to look at some way of getting the food to another community centre.

"Whatever happens, the roadworks must be done. We did a survey of Wood Street and it was breaking up beneath the surface. The work is vital," he said.

However, he said he would speak to contractors first thing to try and find a solution.